How Much To Budget For A New Puppy

The Complete First-Year Cost Guide: Real Costs, Hidden Expenses, Monthly Budgets, and a Financial Readiness Framework

Everyone asks the same question before bringing home a puppy:

“How much is this going to cost?”

Most people focus on the purchase price.

That is understandable.

It is also where many future owners make their first budgeting mistake.

The puppy itself is often not the most expensive part of ownership.

The costs that follow are.

A new puppy may need vaccinations, parasite prevention, training classes, food, grooming, identification, insurance, emergency veterinary care, and replacement items after the inevitable chewing phase begins. Some expenses are predictable. Others arrive unexpectedly and often at inconvenient times.

Consider a common example.

A puppy swallows a guitar pick left under a couch. The owner rushes to the veterinarian. Fortunately, the object passes naturally and the bill remains manageable. If surgery had been required, the cost could easily have exceeded several thousand dollars.

Most people budget for the puppy.

Far fewer budget for the guitar pick.

That difference is often what separates a comfortable ownership experience from a financially stressful one.

This guide is designed to answer more than just “How much does a puppy cost?”

It is designed to help you answer:

• Can I realistically afford a puppy?
• How much should I budget during the first year?
• What monthly costs should I expect?
• Which hidden expenses catch owners by surprise?
• Is pet insurance worth it?
• How much should I save for emergencies?
• What will this dog cost over its lifetime?

By the end, you will have a realistic financial roadmap instead of a rough guess.

How Much Should You Budget for a New Puppy?

Quick Answer

Most new puppy owners should budget between $2,000 and $6,000+ during the first year, although some households spend significantly more depending on breed, location, lifestyle, and healthcare needs.

The first year is almost always the most expensive because it combines:

• Acquisition costs
• Initial veterinary care
• Equipment purchases
• Training expenses
• Ongoing food and preventative healthcare

Typical First-Year Puppy Budget

Expected First-Year Total

Adoption Route

Approximately:

$2,000–$5,500+

Breeder Route

Approximately:

$3,000–$8,500+

These ranges represent realistic ownership costs rather than best-case scenarios.

Average Monthly Cost of a Puppy

Many prospective owners search for monthly expenses because annual totals can feel abstract.

A practical monthly budget looks like this:

Across the first year, most owners spend approximately:

$250–$500 per month on average.

However, spending is rarely distributed evenly.

The first few months are often dramatically more expensive than the rest of the year.

The Cost Question Most People Should Ask Instead

Many articles answer:

How much does a puppy cost?

A better question is:

How much financial flexibility does puppy ownership require?

A household may be able to afford routine expenses but struggle with an unexpected $3,000 emergency veterinary bill.

Responsible budgeting means planning for both predictable and unpredictable costs.

Why Puppy Costs Vary So Much

One family may spend $2,500 during the first year.

Another may spend $10,000.

Neither family is necessarily doing anything wrong.

The difference usually comes down to several major variables.

Breed

Breed influences far more than acquisition price.

It can affect:

• Veterinary costs
• Insurance premiums
• Grooming requirements
• Food consumption
• Lifetime healthcare expenses

Certain breeds are more prone to chronic medical conditions.

Examples include:

• French Bulldogs
• English Bulldogs
• Pugs
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Great Danes

A puppy with a low purchase price but significant health issues may ultimately cost more than a healthy puppy purchased from a reputable breeder.

Size

Size affects nearly every recurring expense.

Larger dogs generally require:

• More food
• Higher medication dosages
• Larger equipment
• Larger crates
• Larger beds
• Higher boarding costs

Over a lifetime, these differences can add up to thousands of dollars.

Location

The same puppy can generate very different costs depending on where you live.

Urban areas typically have:

• Higher veterinary fees
• Higher grooming costs
• Higher daycare costs
• Higher boarding rates

Rural areas often have lower service costs but may offer fewer specialty veterinary facilities.

Lifestyle

Your lifestyle may influence costs as much as your dog’s breed.

Owners who:

• Work remotely
• Travel infrequently
• Have family support

often spend less on services.

Owners who rely on:

• Dog walkers
• Daycare
• Boarding
• Pet sitters

may spend several thousand dollars more each year.

Health and Luck

Two identical puppies from the same litter can have dramatically different lifetime costs.

One may never experience a major health issue.

The other may require surgeries, ongoing medications, or specialist care.

This uncertainty is one reason emergency planning matters so much.

The Acquisition Cost: Where Puppy Budgets Begin

The first major financial decision occurs before the puppy comes home.

How you acquire your dog can influence first-year costs by thousands of dollars.

Adoption From a Shelter or Rescue

Typical adoption fees range from:

$50–$500

Many shelters and rescue organizations include services such as:

• Initial vaccinations
• Microchipping
• Health examinations
• Spay or neuter procedures

These inclusions can represent substantial value.

For many first-time owners, adoption is the most cost-efficient path to responsible dog ownership.

Advantages of Adoption

• Lower upfront costs
• Frequently includes veterinary services
• Supports animal welfare organizations
• Wide variety of dogs available

Potential Considerations

Some adopted dogs may require:

• Additional socialization
• Behavioral training
• Medical evaluation

These possibilities should not discourage adoption.

They simply reinforce the importance of budgeting for training and healthcare regardless of acquisition method.

Purchasing From a Reputable Breeder

Reputable breeders generally charge:

$500–$3,000+

Certain breeds may cost:

$5,000–$8,000+

or more.

Examples include:

• French Bulldogs
• English Bulldogs
• Samoyeds
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Miniature Dachshunds

What a Higher Price Often Reflects

Responsible breeders frequently invest in:

• Genetic testing
• Health screenings
• Veterinary examinations
• Early socialization
• Breed-specific health programs

The additional cost often reflects risk reduction rather than luxury.

A lower purchase price does not automatically mean lower lifetime ownership costs.

In many cases, a well-bred puppy with documented health testing may cost less over its lifetime than a cheaper puppy that develops preventable medical problems.

Acquisition Cost Comparison

Veterinary Costs: The Most Underestimated Puppy Expense

Ask experienced dog owners what surprised them most financially.

Many will answer:

Veterinary care.

Most people budget for vaccinations.

Far fewer budget for emergencies.

Veterinary spending generally falls into three categories.

Routine Puppy Wellness Care

Puppies require multiple veterinary visits during their first year.

Common services include:

• Physical examinations
• Vaccinations
• Parasite testing
• Deworming
• Microchipping
• Preventative medications

A realistic budget is:

$500–$1,500+

depending on location and clinic pricing.

Spay or Neuter Procedures

Costs vary considerably.

Factors affecting price include:

• Size
• Sex
• Health status
• Geographic location

Researching local programs before bringing home your puppy can save hundreds of dollars.

Emergency Veterinary Care

This is where many budgets break down.

Puppies are naturally curious.

That curiosity occasionally becomes expensive.

Common emergency visits involve:

• Foreign object ingestion
• Toxic food exposure
• Fractures
• Respiratory infections
• Severe digestive issues
• Intestinal blockages

Emergency treatment commonly ranges from:

$500–$5,000+

and can occasionally exceed that range.

One emergency may cost more than all routine veterinary care combined.

Veterinary Cost Summary

A Practical Financial Reality Check

If an unexpected $3,000 veterinary bill would create serious financial hardship, it may be wise to postpone puppy ownership until:

• Savings improve
• Insurance is secured
• Financial stability increases

This is not about perfection.

It is about preparedness.

Essential Supplies: What You Actually Need

Pet stores are excellent at convincing new owners they need everything immediately.

Most puppies disagree.

A better approach is purchasing essentials first and upgrading later if necessary.

First-Week Puppy Shopping List

Estimated First-Week Total

$190–$552

before veterinary costs.

Purchases Many Owners Regret

Common overspending mistakes include:

• Luxury dog beds
• Large toy collections
• Designer accessories
• Premium carriers
• Novelty clothing

Many puppies care far more about:

• Sleep
• Food
• Play
• Attention

than expensive accessories.

Purchasing gradually often results in better decisions and lower overall costs.

A Smarter Buying Strategy

Buy for the puppy you have today.

Not the dog you imagine owning six months from now.

Many owners discover that their puppy:

• Prefers a different bed
• Outgrows equipment faster than expected
• Ignores certain toys entirely

Starting with essentials and upgrading strategically is often the most financially efficient approach.

Training: The Investment Most Owners Undervalue

Many first-time puppy owners view training as an optional expense.

Experienced owners often view it differently.

Training is one of the few puppy-related expenses that can actively reduce future costs.

A well-trained dog is generally:

• Easier to manage
• Less destructive
• Safer around people and animals
• Less likely to develop problematic behaviors
• Easier to groom and transport
• Easier for veterinarians to examine

In financial terms, training is not merely an expense.

It is often a form of risk management.

Group Classes vs. Private Training

Most puppies benefit from structured group classes because they provide both obedience training and socialization opportunities.

For most households, the best value comes from:

1. Puppy socialization classes
2. Consistent daily practice at home
3. Occasional professional support when necessary

The Hidden Cost of Delayed Training

Many owners postpone training to save money.

The problem is that behavioral issues often become more expensive over time.

A few examples:

A $200 puppy class may prevent thousands of dollars in future problems.

Socialization: The Overlooked Budget Category

Socialization is often confused with simply meeting other dogs.

Proper socialization involves controlled exposure to:

• People
• Sounds
• Surfaces
• Vehicles
• Grooming
• Veterinary handling
• New environments

Poor socialization can contribute to:

• Fear-based behaviors
• Aggression
• Anxiety disorders

These issues can be difficult and expensive to address later.

For this reason, many trainers consider socialization one of the highest-return investments during puppyhood.

Hidden Costs Most New Puppy Owners Miss

Most budgeting guides focus on expected expenses.

The biggest financial surprises often come from unexpected ones.

These are the costs that rarely appear in adoption brochures or breeder conversations.

Hidden Cost Probability Ranking

Why These Costs Matter

Financial stress rarely comes from a single catastrophic event.

More often it comes from several smaller surprises occurring close together.

For example:

• A chewed laptop charger
• A damaged pair of glasses
• An upgraded crate
• Additional training sessions
• A minor emergency vet visit

Each expense may be manageable individually.

Together they can significantly impact a monthly budget.

The Teething Phase Reality

Many first-time owners underestimate the financial consequences of teething.

Puppies commonly destroy:

• Shoes
• Furniture corners
• Electrical cords
• Clothing
• Bedding
• Children’s toys

The actual damage varies widely between dogs.

Some puppies destroy almost nothing.

Others seem determined to test every item in the house.

Budgeting for replacement costs is realistic, not pessimistic.

The Lifestyle Upgrade Trap

Many puppy owners gradually increase spending without realizing it.

Examples include:

• Premium foods
• Subscription toy boxes
• Additional grooming
• Specialty treats
• Dog-friendly vacations
• Premium daycare

None of these are inherently bad purchases.

The key is recognizing the difference between essential costs and lifestyle upgrades.

The Size and Breed Multiplier

Breed and size influence ownership costs far more than many prospective owners realize.

The purchase price is often only a small part of the financial picture.

How Size Changes Ownership Costs

Larger dogs generally cost more because recurring expenses scale with body weight.

Food

Food is one of the most obvious examples.

A toy breed may consume a fraction of what a giant breed requires.

Over a decade, food costs alone can differ by thousands of dollars.

Medication

Many medications are dosed according to body weight.

This affects:

• Flea prevention
• Tick prevention
• Heartworm prevention
• Prescription medications

Larger dogs often pay significantly more.

Equipment

Larger dogs require:

• Larger crates
• Larger beds
• Larger harnesses
• Larger travel equipment

These costs are usually recurring rather than one-time purchases.

Boarding and Daycare

Many facilities charge more for larger dogs because they require:

• More space
• More food
• More handling resources

Small vs. Medium vs. Large Dog Ownership Costs

The Long-Term Financial Impact

A large-breed dog can easily cost $8,000–$15,000 more than a small-breed dog over its lifetime.

For families choosing between breeds, this may be one of the most important financial decisions in the entire ownership journey.

Breed Cost Index™

Purchase price often receives the most attention.

Lifetime ownership cost deserves more.

This index focuses on:

• Common health risks
• Food consumption
• Grooming requirements
• Insurance costs
• Average veterinary spending

rather than purchase price alone.

Estimated Ownership Cost Ratings

Why Certain Breeds Cost More

Some breeds have elevated risks for:

• Breathing disorders
• Orthopedic conditions
• Skin disease
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Chronic allergies

These issues may not appear during puppyhood.

However, they can significantly affect lifetime ownership costs.

An Important Decision Framework

When evaluating breeds, ask:

1. What are the common health risks?
2. What is the average lifespan?
3. What grooming requirements exist?
4. What insurance premiums are typical?
5. What is the average annual veterinary spending?

Many prospective owners focus only on purchase price.

Experienced owners often focus on lifetime costs instead.

Puppy Affordability Scorecard™

Many people ask:

“Can I afford a puppy?”

This scorecard helps answer that question more objectively.

Score Yourself

Assign:

• 0 points
• 1 point
• 2 points

for each category.

Results

0–4 Points

You may want to delay puppy ownership.

Several important readiness factors are currently missing.

5–7 Points

You are approaching readiness.

Address remaining weaknesses before moving forward.

8–10 Points

You are likely well-prepared financially and practically.

What This Scorecard Does Not Measure

The scorecard evaluates readiness.

It does not measure commitment.

Responsible ownership still requires:

• Consistency
• Patience
• Training
• Time
• Long-term planning

The Puppy Cost Readiness Framework (PCRF)

Most puppy readiness checklists focus on enthusiasm.

The PCRF focuses on sustainability.

Dimension 1: Baseline Financial Coverage

Can you comfortably cover:

• Acquisition
• Supplies
• Veterinary care
• Food
• Training

without creating financial strain?

Suggested preparedness:

• $3,000 available for adoption routes
• $5,000 available for breeder routes

Dimension 2: Emergency Preparedness

Can you absorb an unexpected veterinary emergency?

Ideal preparation includes:

• $3,000–$5,000 emergency reserve
• Pet insurance before pickup day

This is the category most frequently overlooked by new owners.

Dimension 3: Long-Term Sustainability

Can you comfortably fund ownership for the next 10–15 years?

Many people budget for acquisition.

Fewer budget for the entire lifespan.

Dimension 4: Time Liquidity

Time creates financial consequences.

Puppies lacking supervision often develop:

• Destructive habits
• Behavioral problems
• Anxiety-related issues

These frequently require additional spending to resolve.

Dimension 5: Lifestyle Compatibility

Consider:

• Housing stability
• Travel frequency
• Work schedule
• Family obligations
• Future life changes

The best puppy is not necessarily the one you can afford today.

It is the one you can responsibly support for its entire life.

Pet Insurance vs. Emergency Savings: Which Is Better?

This is one of the most debated topics among dog owners.

The honest answer is:

Both approaches can work.

The best choice depends on your financial situation and risk tolerance.

When Pet Insurance Makes More Sense

Insurance often makes sense when:

• You own a high-risk breed
• You lack substantial savings
• You want predictable monthly expenses
• You are insuring a young puppy

Puppies generally qualify for broader coverage because they have fewer pre-existing conditions.

When Emergency Savings Makes More Sense

Self-insurance may be appropriate when:

• You maintain substantial emergency savings
• You are comfortable accepting financial risk
• You understand policy exclusions
• You can absorb unexpected expenses without hardship

The Hybrid Strategy Many Experienced Owners Use

Many financially prepared owners use a hybrid approach.

They maintain:

• Pet insurance for catastrophic events
• Dedicated savings for deductibles, exclusions, and routine care

This approach combines risk protection with financial flexibility.

The Cost Calculation Most Owners Miss

Insurance often costs:

$35–$150 per month

or:

$420–$1,800 annually

Over a 12-year lifespan, premiums may total:

$5,000–$20,000+

Insurance is not necessarily about saving money.

It is about preventing a single emergency from becoming a financial crisis.

For many households, that protection alone justifies the expense.

Why Puppy Costs Vary by Location

Two identical puppies can generate dramatically different costs depending on where they live.

Urban Areas

Urban owners often face:

• Higher veterinary fees
• Higher daycare costs
• Higher grooming costs
• Higher boarding rates

Rural Areas

Rural owners often benefit from:

• Lower service costs
• Lower boarding fees
• Lower routine veterinary pricing

However, specialty care and emergency facilities may be less accessible.

Regional Cost Planning

When budgeting, avoid relying solely on national averages.

Research local costs for:

• Veterinary clinics
• Emergency hospitals
• Groomers
• Boarding facilities
• Daycare centers

The most accurate puppy budget is always a local one.

Service Costs: Dog Walking, Daycare, and Boarding

One of the biggest differences between puppy ownership on paper and puppy ownership in real life is the cost of support services.

Some households never need them.

Others rely on them regularly.

Neither approach is wrong.

The key is understanding how your lifestyle affects your budget.

Dog Walking

Young puppies cannot comfortably hold their bladder for a full workday.

If everyone in the household works outside the home, dog walking services may become a necessity rather than a luxury.

Typical pricing:

Using a walker five days per week can add:

$1,500–$4,000+ annually

to ownership costs.

Doggy Daycare

Daycare can provide:

• Exercise
• Supervision
• Socialization
• Mental stimulation

For some high-energy breeds, occasional daycare can help prevent boredom-related behavioral issues.

Typical pricing:

Regular attendance can cost:

$2,600–$5,200+ annually

Boarding and Travel Costs

Travel is one of the most commonly forgotten puppy expenses.

Typical rates include:

Families who travel several times each year can easily spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on pet care.

Service Cost Reality Check

Many prospective owners compare food costs across breeds.

In practice, daycare and boarding often exceed food costs entirely.

For working professionals, support services can become one of the largest recurring ownership expenses.

Puppy Expenses by Month: When the Costs Actually Occur

One of the biggest budgeting mistakes new owners make is assuming puppy expenses are evenly distributed throughout the year.

They are not.

Puppy ownership is heavily front-loaded.

First-Year Puppy Cost Timeline

The First 90-Day Reality

Many households spend:

40–60% of total first-year puppy costs during the first three months.

This is why budgeting only for acquisition costs frequently creates financial stress.

The puppy may arrive with a manageable price tag.

The expenses that follow often arrive quickly.

A Smarter Budgeting Approach

Instead of saving only for acquisition, prepare for:

1. Acquisition costs
2. Veterinary costs
3. Supply costs
4. Emergency reserve funding

before pickup day.

This creates significantly more financial flexibility during the adjustment period.

The Complete First-Year Puppy Cost Summary

Actual costs vary by:

• Breed
• Size
• Location
• Lifestyle
• Health status

The following ranges represent realistic planning estimates rather than best-case scenarios.

First-Year Cost Breakdown

Expected First-Year Totals

Households using frequent daycare, boarding, or specialized veterinary services may exceed these ranges.

Money-Saving Strategies That Actually Work

Not all savings strategies are created equal.

Some reduce costs responsibly.

Others simply postpone larger expenses.

High-Value Savings

Enroll in Insurance Early

Waiting can create exclusions for future conditions.

Insuring a healthy puppy is often easier than insuring an older dog.

Research Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Programs

Many communities offer subsidized services that provide substantial savings.

Buy Consumables in Bulk

Examples include:

• Food
• Treats
• Poop bags
• Preventative medications

Invest in Early Training

Training often reduces future spending more effectively than almost any other investment.

Moderate Savings

Purchase Used Equipment

Many crates, gates, and exercise pens remain in excellent condition after minimal use.

Learn Basic Grooming Skills

Simple maintenance can reduce annual grooming costs significantly.

Delay Luxury Purchases

Many puppies destroy their first beds, blankets, and toys.

Starting with practical options often makes financial sense.

False Economies to Avoid

Cheap Food

Lower-quality nutrition may contribute to health issues later.

Skipping Vaccinations

Preventive care is almost always cheaper than treatment.

Delaying Training

Behavioral problems tend to become more expensive over time.

Having Neither Insurance Nor Savings

This is one of the highest-risk financial positions a dog owner can occupy.

Year Two and Beyond: What Dog Ownership Really Costs

Many people assume ownership costs drop dramatically after the first year.

Some costs decrease.

Others remain surprisingly consistent.

Typical Annual Costs After Year One

Most healthy dogs cost approximately:

$1,000–$2,500 annually

for:

• Food
• Routine veterinary care
• Preventive medications
• Supplies
• Basic grooming

This does not include:

• Emergencies
• Insurance
• Daycare
• Boarding
• Specialized medical care

The Veterinary Inflation Factor

One aspect of ownership that receives little attention is veterinary inflation.

Veterinary costs have generally increased faster than many owners expect.

A puppy acquired today may face substantially higher healthcare costs during its senior years than current estimates suggest.

When planning long-term ownership, assume future veterinary expenses will be higher rather than lower.

This conservative approach creates more realistic expectations.

Lifetime Ownership Costs

For a dog living 12–14 years:

These figures surprise many first-time owners.

They should not discourage ownership.

They should encourage preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Puppy Cost Per Month?

Most owners spend approximately:

• $250–$500 per month during the first year
• $100–$200 per month after year one

excluding emergencies and professional services.

What Is the Minimum Savings I Should Have Before Getting a Puppy?

A practical minimum is:

• $3,000 for adoption routes
• $5,000 for breeder routes

plus an emergency plan through savings, insurance, or both.

Is It Cheaper to Adopt or Buy a Puppy?

Adoption is usually less expensive initially.

Many adoption fees include:

• Vaccinations
• Microchipping
• Spay/neuter procedures

However, long-term costs depend on the individual dog’s health, behavior, and care requirements.

What Are the Most Common Unexpected Puppy Expenses?

The most common surprises include:

• Emergency veterinary visits
• Destroyed household items
• Additional training
• Special diets
• Equipment replacements

How Much Should I Budget for Puppy Training?

Most owners should plan for:

$200–$500 minimum

for foundational training and socialization.

Does a Small Dog Cost Less Than a Large Dog?

Generally yes.

Food, medication, boarding, and equipment costs usually increase with body size.

Should I Get Pet Insurance or Save Money Instead?

Both approaches can work.

Many experienced owners combine both strategies by maintaining insurance while building emergency savings.

What Is the 90/10 Rule for Dogs?

The 90/10 rule suggests:

• 90% of calories from complete, balanced nutrition
• 10% or less from treats

How Much Does Puppy Food Cost Per Year?

Typical annual costs range from:

• $400–$500 for small breeds
• $900–$1,500+ for large breeds

depending on diet quality and health requirements.

Can I Afford a Puppy on a Limited Income?

Possibly.

Income matters less than preparation.

The critical question is whether you can consistently cover both routine and emergency expenses.

How Much Does a Puppy Cost at a Pet Store?

Pet store puppies often cost:

$1,000–$4,000+

though prices vary significantly by breed and location.

What Is the First-Year Cost of a Puppy for a College Student?

Most students should expect:

$2,000–$5,500+

during the first year.

Housing restrictions, schedule changes, and limited emergency savings often create additional challenges.

How Much Does Grooming Cost?

Annual grooming costs typically range from:

• $100–$200 for short-haired breeds
• $400–$1,200+ for high-maintenance coats

What Is the Total Lifetime Cost of Owning a Dog?

Most dogs cost:

$20,000–$40,000+

over their lifetime.

Some breeds exceed these estimates significantly.

How Do I Budget for a Puppy Month by Month?

A practical framework is:

• Months 1–3: $500–$800 per month
• Months 4–6: $300–$500 per month
• Months 7–12: $150–$300 per month

while continuing to build emergency reserves.

Should You Get a Puppy Right Now?

Financial readiness is not about perfection.

It is about resilience.

You are likely ready if:

• You can comfortably cover first-year costs
• You have an emergency plan
• You understand breed-specific risks
• You have time for training and socialization
• You can support the dog throughout its lifespan

You may want to delay ownership if:

• An unexpected $2,000–$5,000 expense would create hardship
• Housing is uncertain
• Work schedules limit supervision
• Emergency savings are limited
• You are relying on optimism rather than preparation

There is no advantage to getting a puppy six months earlier if it creates years of financial stress.

What Financial Readiness for a Puppy Actually Looks Like

The question is not simply:

“How much does a puppy cost?”

The better question is:

“Can I sustainably support this puppy for the next 10–15 years?”

The financial reality is straightforward:

• First-year costs commonly range from $2,000–$6,000+
• Ongoing annual costs often range from $1,000–$2,500+
• Lifetime ownership frequently exceeds $20,000–$40,000+

These numbers are significant.

So are the rewards.

The owners who report the best experiences are rarely the wealthiest.

They are usually the best prepared.

They:

• Built emergency savings before pickup day
• Invested in training early
• Researched breed-specific health risks
• Chose a dog compatible with their lifestyle
• Planned for long-term ownership rather than short-term excitement

Before choosing the puppy, choose the budget.

Before choosing the budget, build the emergency reserve.

Before building the emergency reserve, research the breed.

That sequence will save more money, reduce more stress, and prevent more regret than any cost-cutting strategy ever will.